Spring cruises are making waves and they are appealing to all ages

The tang of salt air and the sound of sea birds calling to their mates are heady indulgences. Sometimes, people need to get away and luxuriate in a world of deep blue indolence. Spring cruises are making waves by satisfying that urge. They offer a tonic for the soul. They fulfill the wants of a diverse group of folks who have a hankering for different things—solitude, socializing or pampering.

Spring cruises offer to many some highly satisfying activities—sports, dancing, dining and glamorous stage productions that rival any in Hollywood. Today’s cruise ships frequently are likened to floating cities. Nevertheless, if size isn’t something that particularly floats your boat, there are fleets of smaller vessels that offer a more intimate experience that’s comparable in quality.

There are cruises for those who think big

Those who think big can plan their spring cruises aboard massive ships that boast amenities unheard of not long ago. The world’s largest cruise ship—the Oasis of the Seas—is layered with some 16 decks and is comprised of several themed communities whose crowning touch is a huge, lavishly landscaped park similar to that found in the heart of New York City.

One might bring a dozen suitcases to transport all of the wide-brimmed hats and clothing warranted for such a jaunt. The cruise experience is highly individual. Its intricacy or simplicity is choreographed by the consumer. Those who prepare by investigating various cruise lines and the features of the ships in their stables will be pleased. Spring cruises vary greatly in duration, number of ports visited and activities offered. Some are family cruises with kid-friendly activities.

There are cruises for everyone

Moms and dads are finding that cruise time can be quality time. A cruise ship tends to offer activities that can be enjoyed by singles, couples or family groups. And it can be a place of learning. Imagine the beauty of the stars and the planets nestled in a black velvet sky. Bring some high-power binoculars and see them as never before—from the deck of a cruise ship at midnight.

Sometimes, business conventions with hundreds of participants are held aboard ship. Weddings with dozens of friends and relatives are held on cruise ships. Spring cruises today offer far more than a good view of the water. They offer an adventure that easily can be tailored to the wants and needs of the patrons.

Some cautions about cruises

Nothing can ruin a spate of spring cruises faster than realizing important items have been forgotten. Months ahead of departure time, some seasoned travelers begin to maintain a list of items that need to be included in travel bags and totes. Other travelers prefer to keep a list in each room, so that items related to that room can be added before all lists are merged.

Keeping a list in each room has some advantages. The den might be where the address book is kept. That book is a must-have for sending postcards and letters, unless labels are made out ahead of time. The kitchen might be where one’s favorite little bottle of hot sauce is stashed. The basement might yield a rain poncho and its compact tote bag. There are many things besides passports and identifying documents to consider when dreaming of spring cruises.

Compose a comprehensive to-do list

• Did you put a hold on the mail?• Do you have medicines and written prescriptions?• Have you arranged for payment of bills coming due?• Have automobiles been garaged someplace secure?• Is the spare house key in the hands of a trusted person?• Does the camera have fresh batteries?• Do you have a will—and is it accessible to a designee?

What if you don’t like ocean travel?

Those who find the ocean too vast and too overwhelming can find spring cruises that instead traverse rivers and lakes. The Mississippi River is the home of numerous river boat cruises that range in duration from a quickie to a long weekend or more. The sound of the paddle wheel churning and the live music performed by banjo players and accordionists makes the occasion extra festive.

There are spring cruises that offer scenic tours of the Great Lakes, Lake Tahoe and many more. Mostly any part of the country—except Death Valley and the Badlands of South Dakota—offers some kind of wet, wonderful vistas. And while the launch of giant yellow inner tubes into the raging rapids of the Colorado doesn’t quite jive with the image most folks have of spring cruises, fun comes in many forms. How do you like your fun?